Amid recent economic downturns, IT departments face increased stress, with layoffs in the tech sector contributing to a shortage of software developers available to address growing needs. With the rising demand for productivity and retaining morale, companies are seeking alternatives, such as low-code development platforms, to alleviate application backlogs and improve workflows.
Low-code development platforms enable engineers and citizen developers to build functional applications using reusable components. A recent study from Microsoft has shown that 89% of CIOs and IT professionals believe low-code increases efficiency. In this article, we discuss the benefits of utilising low-code platforms and provide insights from the recent Microsoft study.
The Microsoft study highlights several advantages to implementing low-code platforms:
For instance, Microsoft recently integrated ChatGPT into its Power Platform, highlighting its commitment to incorporating AI into their low-code offerings.
Low-code platforms help companies streamline data processes, provide centralized repositories, and improve the quality of data-driven insights. In one example, Austrian rail operator ÖBB used a low-code platform to synchronize data and automate customer service inquiries with virtual agents. Other case studies report using Microsoft Power Platform for migration from legacy systems and reducing document processing lead times.
However, not all industry professionals are convinced on the value of low-code. Some critics argue that low-code platforms have a ceiling, which limits customization and may not be suitable for experienced developers or technology-specific companies. Additionally, concerns about security, vendor lock-in, and data retrieval emphasize the need for open platforms with programmatic access.
Low-code platforms offer various advantages, such as clearing items from IT backlogs, automating time-consuming processes, and allowing engineers to focus on more pressing matters. These platforms can also democratize application development for individuals with diverse skill sets. The industry sees increasing interest in low-code, with Markets and Markets forecasting a 28.1% compound annual growth rate, reaching $45.5 billion by 2025.
While the Microsoft study is biased towards the benefits of the Microsoft Power Platform, it does provide a glimpse into the potential advantages of low-code platforms in general. Read their full report for more insights, and consider platforms like AppMaster for a more comprehensive no-code development experience.
